Here we have a bit of an odd entry…Italy’s A Perfect Day is the brainchild of Labyrinth co-founder Andrea Cantarelli, who along with Labyrinth band mates Roberto Tiranti and Alessandro Bissa decided to form a hard rock power trio as an outlet for songs that don’t fit into that band’s power metal oeuvre.

The band is unashamedly hard rock, but with a slight post-grunge edge. In other words, this isn’t ‘80s-styled hard rock that’s laden with keyboards, but more in the “tougher”, chugging hard rock style of the last 15 years or so, still with high, melodic vocals. Indeed, the album’s ersatz title track is the perfect example of this, featuring a catchy melody sung flawlessly by Tiranti over top of a slightly pedestrian guitar riff. That actually sums up the album closely, as many of these songs are laid back (there are lots of ballads) and enjoyable while they are on, but not particularly memorable. Not to disparage Cantarelli’s writing skills, but without Tiranti’s impassioned performance, songs like “Under the Same Sun” or “Warm Embrace” wouldn’t make much of an impact.

A PERFECT DAY functions exactly as it’s supposed to: a channel for members of Labyrinth to release some music that doesn’t fit into their “day” job. It’s also a perfectly fine hard rock album that will appeal fans looking for a more relaxing listen. If the band is more than a one-off, I’m hopeful that they’ll develop their song writing into something a bit more exciting but for now, this is still a worthwhile listen.

Track Listing

1. Another Perfect Day
2. Now and Forever
3. Long Road to Ruin
4. Alone and Free (Rockblind)
5. Silent Cry
6. Under the Same Sun
7. Here We Are Again
8. Waiting on the Edge
9. Warm Embrace
10. We Only Say Goodbye